ADDRESSING THE EFFECTS OF URBAN HEAT ISLANDS THROUGH URBAN PLANNING INTERVENTIONS: A CASE OF DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA

The Urban Heat Island (UHI) phenomenon is increasingly becoming a critical issue due to the adverse impacts it poses to the residents of many cities worldwide; and the extent to which climate change exacerbates the issue. The study sought to assess the adequacy of current urban planning approaches in mitigating the UHI effects in Dar es Salaam City, Tanzania by using a mixed method approach. The study leveraged empirical data collected through surveys and interviews, as well as field observations to identify the contributing factors that exacerbate the UHI effects. The results showed that soil impermeability, town morphology, inadequate green spaces, and vegetation cover were significant contributors to the UHI effects, with poor urban planning worsening the issue. In conclusion, the study recommends to address the UHI effects by integration of meteorological data in urban planning and management in conjunction with adoption of green roof and walls, adoption and enforcement of setback regulations and building codes, choice of reflective materials, promotion of co-production, awareness creation and community participation.